First Bird Flu Case In 2 Years Found In MD Poultry Operation

CAROLINE COUNTY, MD — Maryland health officials on Friday said bird flu has been detected in a commercial poultry operation in Caroline County, according to a news release.

The case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza marks the first in the state since 2023, according to the Maryland Department of Agriculture. It follows two additional cases of bird flu found last month in neighboring Kent County, Delaware.

The case was discovered during routine sampling of a broiler operation, officials said. Confirmation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory is pending.

State officials have since quarantined the affected facilities and birds on the properties were being depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease.

Birds from affected flocks will not enter the food system, officials said.

“High Pathogenic Avian influenza or HPAI does not affect poultry meat or egg products, which remain healthy and safe to eat and handle,” said Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks.

Avian influenza — also known as bird flu — is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads easily among birds through nasal and eye secretions, as well as manure. The virus can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, contact with infected poultry, equipment, and the clothing and shoes of caretakers.

The virus affects poultry, like chickens, ducks, and turkeys, along with some wild bird species such as ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.

According to the Department of Health, the risk of transmission between birds and the general public is low; however, those who work directly with poultry or dairy farms may be more at risk.

Learn more about avian influenza on the Department of Health's website.

Residents and poultry producers are asked to report any unusual bird deaths or sudden increases in very sick birds to the MDA Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810 or after-hours to 410-841-5971; the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 877-620-8367; or the USDA at 866-536-7593.